The Flying Firsts of Walter Hinton
by Benjamin J. Burns
"From the 1919 Transatlantic Flight to the Arctic and the Amazon"
Popularity
3.64 / 5
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The Flying Firsts of Walter Hinton by Benjamin J. Burns
Details
Perspective:
Pilots
Military Unit:
US Navy
True Story:
Yes
Biography:
Yes
Region:
North America
Page Count:
258
Published Date:
2012
ISBN13:
9780786487943
Description
Brief Summary
The Flying Firsts of Walter Hinton by Benjamin J. Burns delves into the life and achievements of a pioneering figure in aviation history, Walter Hinton. Renowned for being a pilot on the first plane to cross the Atlantic in May 1919, Hinton's adventures go beyond this historic flight. Through more than 40 hours of personal interviews, Burns paints a vivid picture of Hinton's various exploits, including being lost in the Canadian Arctic, making the inaugural flight from New York to Rio de Janeiro, and exploring the Amazon from the skies. This book uncovers a fascinating and lesser-known chapter of American aviation history.
Main Themes and Topics
The book primarily explores the audacious spirit of early aviation and the fearless individuals who dared to conquer the skies. A significant theme revolves around human endurance and the relentless pursuit of innovation. Through Walter Hinton’s pioneering missions, the narrative highlights the evolution of aviation and its impact on global connectivity. Additionally, the book addresses the challenges and unpredictability faced by early aviators, framing Hinton's experiences as emblematic of the broader journey of 20th-century aviation pioneers.
Writing Style and Tone
Benjamin J. Burns adopts an engaging and informative writing style, interspersing technical details with vivid storytelling. His tone is reverent and empathetic, capturing the essence of Hinton's fearless character and the perils of early aviation exploration. The narrative is driven by extensive first-hand accounts, lending authenticity and depth to the historical retelling. Burns manages to maintain a balanced pace, ensuring that both aviation enthusiasts and general readers remain captivated throughout.
Criticism
While The Flying Firsts of Walter Hinton provides an absorbing account of Hinton's life, some readers might find the technical aspects of aviation overly detailed, potentially alienating those without a prior interest in the subject. Additionally, given its focus on Hinton's achievements, the book might have benefited from further contextual exploration of the broader societal impacts of his contributions to aviation.
